Speaking during the commemoration of 80 years of United Nations service held in Juba, Lomuro lauded the UN for its longstanding partnership with South Sudan, particularly through the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), which he credited for facilitating the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
“South Sudan and the United Nations have walked a long journey together. The UN has been more than a partner — it has been a pillar in our nation’s recovery, stability, and growth,” Lomuro said.
“We particularly urge sustained support to the peace roadmap and the preparations towards credible and peaceful elections,” he added.
Lomuro acknowledged the UN’s critical role in humanitarian and development assistance to millions of South Sudanese affected by conflict, flooding, and food insecurity.
He further called for expanded programs targeting youth and women empowerment, capacity building, and technological advancement to ensure a “self-reliant and peaceful future.”
“As we celebrate the UN’s 80th anniversary, we must also reflect on how this partnership can be strengthened for the next decade under the theme ‘Building Our Future Together,’” he said.
The minister emphasized that South Sudan, still in political transition, continues to rely on the UN’s expertise and global partnerships to advance peace, economic resilience, and institutional growth.
Despite substantial support from global bodies like the UN to ensure the implementation of the agreement, little progress has been made, with critics pointing to a lack of political will among signatories to implement critical components of the peace deal.
Meanwhile, the Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, Anita Kiki Gbeho, reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting the South Sudanese people and government in achieving lasting peace and stability.
“Today, we mark 80 years since the founding of the United Nations in the wake of a world war,” Gbeho said. “In South Sudan, we continue to work alongside the government and the people to provide humanitarian assistance, support the peace process, protect civilians, and build resilience.”
She highlighted notable progress made since independence, including a rise in adult literacy from 27% in 2008 to 34% in 2022 and an increase in women’s parliamentary representation from 26% in 2013 to 32% in 2023. However, she cautioned that persistent insecurity and the influx of refugees fleeing the Sudan conflict have placed additional strain on the country.
“Over 9.3 million people require humanitarian assistance, and 1.2 million have crossed the border from Sudan since the conflict began,” Gbeho noted, calling for continued dialogue and peaceful engagement among political leaders.
“Resolving differences through dialogue and upholding commitments to peace will be critical to South Sudan’s progress,” she added.
